president obama said mandela's journey from prisoner to president, taught him the power of hope. >> we've lost one of the most influential, courageous and profoundly good human beings that any of us will share time with on this earth. >> reporter: mandela was born in south africa's black elite. but he led the movement against apartheid and was thrown in jail. tonight, south africans remember. >> our thoughts are with the millions of people across the world who embrace him as their own. >> reporter: when nelson mandela walked free after 27 years, he won the presidency, calling for racial reconciliation. and he made it work. no retribution. no trials. just forgiveness and an example to all. the world embraced nelson mandela. the u.s. congress gave him highest honors. tonight, the white house's flag is at half-staff. and this sign is up at the apollo theater. leaders in south africa are consulting with mandela's family regarding the funeral plans. but it is expected south africa will begin 10 to 12 days of official mourning. he lived his life thousands of miles away. but mandela made impact